Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my once timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and fun. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the very first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening aspects of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my residence, just a few days before the semester commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too fearful to step out and introduce myself to anyone. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the greatest friends here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which started with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. The takeaway? It’s wise to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered the importance of being yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you are certain to encounter those who connect with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity and complexity of the workload. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and an even more substantial jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can challenge your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What supported me was recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others are in the same situation. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most essential skill to nurture in your first year. Reach out to peers and staff for assistance!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The staff in Materials are outstanding. They are invested in your success and comprehend the difficulties students endure. They listen empathetically and maintain open lines of communication about our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to engage with staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary message is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that the anxious feelings prior to and during university are often misplaced and can be mitigated with the various support resources from staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I’m never truly alone and has taught me to find joy in myself despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.